F.A.Q.

When is a good time to get my trees pruned?
Light pruning to remove a few small branches of trees can be done at any time of year. More extensive pruning should be done in late winter to early spring. There are three advantages to pruning at this time of the year. First, wound closure is most rapid if it’s done just prior to when new shoots emerge. Second, there are few insects and disease spores to infest pruning cuts. Third, deciduous trees have dropped their leaves, so it’s easier to see what you’re pruning! Trees such as elm, maple, walnut, and birch are “bleeders” when pruned in late winter to early spring. This oozing sap is annoying when it drips on cars and sidewalks. There is disagreement as to whether the oozing is harmful to trees. It is thought that oozing might interfere with the closure of pruning cuts. Oozing is reduced if these tree species are pruned in the fall. However, fall is probably the least desirable time of year to prune most trees. Pruning cuts close more slowly in the fall than in any of the other seasons.

Why prune?
Proper pruning helps establish and maintain healthier, stronger, safer, and more aesthetically pleasing trees. It is also one of the wisest, long-term investments you can make in your property. There are many reasons to prune trees:

IMPROVE HEALTH Deadwood is the prime breeding ground for decay, disease, and insect problems. Removing deadwood is an important pruning objective.

IMPROVE STRUCTURE Poorly attached and weak or broken branches are very common, more so in certain species of trees. Proper understanding of branch attachment is essential when deciding which branches to remove.

REDUCE HAZARDS Many large old trees can become hazardous; a trained arborist can evaluate and reduce risks through proper pruning.

IMPROVE APPEARANCE Most of us enjoy a good-looking tree. Crown cleaning, along with lightening of excessively long branches, can return a tree to its natural beauty.

How can I avoid having my trees trimmed?
The right tree needs to be planted in the right spot.  Keep in mind the dimensions of the tree when it is mature to determine the best placement. Tree roots can also cause problems with your underground utility services, foundation, sidewalks, and driveways.

Most trees have root spans like the mature width of the tree. Plan distance away from structures accordingly.

How much will it cost to trim the trees on my property?
You would be surprised at how a small amount invested now in trimming trees around your property can beautify both your home and your neighborhood. The best thing to do is e-mail or call us and we would be happy to survey your property and give you a price quote. It is unrealistic to give an estimate over the phone or via email as we need to see what is happening at your site. Every situation is different and to effectively solve your tree problems, it is important that provide you with a professional diagnosis. We are very reasonably priced and will beat any written estimate by $100.00. Also, we offer an additional 10% senior discount for our 65 and older customers.

How long will it take to have my trees trimmed or removed?
Some trees are protected under special rules from the local government entity. But most trees can be trimmed or removed within a few days of receiving your estimate.

Do you provide ongoing tree trimming?
Yes. We can set you up for bi-annual tree trimming for oak and other large shade tree trimming. This way, you don’t have to remember to have your tree work scheduled. It’s regularized. This saves you valuable time and the hassle of remembering who it was who trimmed your trees last time.

Do I need to be home for a tree removal process?
You do not need to be home for the removal, we will take care of everything for you!

How many cords of firewood do I need?
This is a question we get a lot at the Treekeepers. Our answer is this – it depends. Amounts will vary based on how well your home is insulated, how efficient your wood burning stove or fireplace might be, as well as your planned use. Just remember that having extra is better than running out!

Now, one cord of wood is a pile that’s 4’ x 4’ x 8’, packed tight. Let’s say you have a modest-sized house, around 2000 square feet. It’s well-insulated with newer windows and an efficient wood stove or fireplace. You plan to burn your wood exclusively for heat (not cooking) and as your primary source of warmth except on unusually frigid days. In this scenario, you’d likely be all set with four cords of wood. Since this is just one situation, feel free to adjust based on your actual square footage and burn needs.

If you have questions or need help deciding what’s best, call us at 438-989-7605. We’ll figure out what you need and get your wood drop on the schedule.